From Rome to the Renaissance: A Student Journey to Florence

Today, our student group said arrivederci to Rome and boarded the bus north toward Florence — the heart of the Italian Renaissance. Spirits were high as we rolled through the scenic countryside, but the real surprise came during our stop at an Autogrill along the highway.

This wasn’t your average rest stop — it was a cultural experience! Students sampled fresh panini, espresso, and even regional pastries. Some picked up quirky souvenirs, while others marveled at how even a roadside café in Italy feels like a mini food festival.

By afternoon, we arrived in Florence and checked into our hotel, where the rooms were styled with Renaissance-era charm — think fresco-inspired walls, antique-style furniture, and windows that opened to terracotta rooftops.

After settling in, we set out on an orientation walk through the city. First stop: Piazza San Marco, buzzing with locals and students. From there, we made our way to the breathtaking Duomo of Florence, where the students stood in awe beneath Brunelleschi’s iconic dome. Cameras clicked and jaws dropped.

We continued to the Piazza della Signoria, the city’s historic political center, surrounded by statues, fountains, and the towering Palazzo Vecchio. The replica of Michelangelo’s David sparked conversations about art, history, and the power of public space.

The day ended with a wonderful group dinner featuring Tuscan specialties — pasta, roasted vegetables, and creamy tiramisu — followed by some free time to explore the city’s evening charm. Some students grabbed gelato, others browsed local shops, and a few simply wandered, soaking in the golden light of Florence at dusk.